Imagine a space where every child can dance freely, express themselves without inhibition, and create unforgettable memories. That's precisely what our Silent Disco aims to offer - a safe haven where differences are celebrated and individuality shines brightly. At our group, imagination takes centre stage as children embark on a journey of discovery through music and movement. With our sensory-friendly environment and expertly curated playlists, every moment is an opportunity for exploration and joy. So, if you're searching for a one-of-a-kind experience where laughter fills the air and joy knows no bounds, look no further than our Silent Disco for Children with Additional Needs. Join us as we dance, laugh, and celebrate inclusivity together!
What is Silent Disco?
Silent Disco is an accessible weekend group providing fitness, leisure and fun for children with disabilities and long-term health conditions that runs on the first Saturday of the month 1300-1500 at New Springs City Church (130 Fulwell Rd, Roker, Sunderland SR6 9QR).
The aim of the Silent Disco group is to enable children with additional needs to enjoy accessible fun, creating lasting friendships and to engage with accessible crafts and fitness.
This is a pilot programme that will run for eight sessions - we hope to continue it in the future!
Who is Silent Disco for?
Silent Disco welcomes 20 children per session to come together for a vibrant and enriching experience. Our inclusive environment ensures that every participant feels valued and engaged, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. And here's the best part: attendance is entirely free!
We believe that every child deserves access to quality programmes regardless of financial barriers.
Should you feel inclined, you have the option to contribute to our group through donations, either in person with cash or conveniently online via our website. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps support our mission and ensures the continuation of our activities. We sincerely appreciate your generosity and support in helping us make a positive impact in our community.
This service will be for children with SEN disabilities, physical disabilities, children with complex disabilities and disabled children who are at high risk of exclusion from school. The group also welcomes children who are at the pre-diagnosis stage.
Silent Disco's Protective Measures
The sessions will be delivered by qualified Advance DBS staff, volunteers and trainers with a variety of certifications including Safeguarding Children, Safeguarding in a Learning Environment, Autism Awareness and ADHD Awareness.
It will be a safe space for parents to choose if they want to stay or to drop off their children.
What happens at Silent Disco?
The two hour period will be broken up into four activities:
Activity 1 | 40 minute Inclusive Child-Focused Fitness | After being welcomed and oriented, children will be invited to participate in fitness activities and games using accessible equipment and sensory materials. If a child is not feeling up to this activity, a member of staff will be manning the creative craft station for the duration of this activity. |
Activity 2 | 20 minute Healthy Snacks and Drinks | Food and drink will be available to children and adults present. |
Activity 3 | 45 minute Silent Disco | The children will enjoy a Silent Disco |
Activity 4 | 15 minute sensory circuit | The sensory circuit will help reduce overstimulation at home post-club. |
Activity One
The fitness options available will vary from accessible sports, to active games, to dancing depending on the available trainer. The activity will be related to the theme and will always be announced at the time bookings open so you and your children know exactly what to expect.
We often work with the wonderful Ashe from Danceversity who has an excellent community reputation for her inclusive dance programmes and events.
There will be a crafting station that will open 10 minutes into the activity so children who become overwhelmed or overstimulated will have the ability to choose a quite task instead.
Activity Two
Water, fruits and vegetables will be available to all people who attend, adult and child, free of charge.
Juice, teas, coffees and other foods will be available for a small fee to help fund the group.
Alternatively, if you'd like us to provide a healthy pack-lunch for your child, this will available to add to your booking for £5.00.
Activity Three
What sets our Silent Disco apart is its unique concept of providing holistic, individualised support for children with additional needs to enjoy fun activities. Equipped with wireless headphones, children can groove to the rhythm of their favourite tunes without disturbing their peers. With a variety of music genres available, from soothing melodies to upbeat tracks, there's something for every taste and preference.
But it's not just about the music; it's about fostering a sense of belonging. Our dedicated team understands the diverse needs of every child and ensures that everyone feels welcomed and supported throughout the event. From sensory-friendly lighting to comfortable seating areas, every detail is meticulously planned to create a sensory-friendly environment.
Activity Four
A sensory circuit is a form of sensory integration intervention. It involves a sequence of physical activities that are designed to alert, organise and calm children with SEN disabilities. The sensory circuit aims to facilitate sensory processing to help children regulate and organise their senses in order to achieve the ‘just right’ or optimum level of alertness.
Sensory circuits are designed to start with alerting activities, move to an organising phase and then finally to a calming phase. Doing the activities in the recommended order is vital. The right order results in a well-regulated, happy child. The wrong order may well result in a dysregulated, upset or irritable child and have the opposite effect.
Alerting
The aim of this section is to provide vestibular and proprioceptive stimulation within a controlled setting.
Example activities: Jumping/bouncing on a trampoline, skipping, running, rolling and bouncing on a yoga ball, animal walks, step ups, star jumps etc.
Organising
This section includes activities that require motor sensory processing, balance and timing. These activities help improve focus and attention. The child needs to organise their body, plan their approach and do more than one thing at a time in sequential order.
Example activities: Balancing, climbing, log rolls, throwing to a target, wobble boards, weaving in and out of cones, throwing and catching, jumping through hoops etc.
Calming
The calming activities are very important as they provide input to ensure that children leave the circuit and return to their homes calm, centred and ready for the day ahead.
Example activities: Proprioceptive and deep pressure e.g. yoga ball squashes, lying under a weighted blanket, linear swinging or rocking, heavy muscle work e.g. crawling through a tunnel, press ups etc.
Accessibility Features
The site has ramped access, level floors, wide doors and an accessible toilet.
All our crafts, messy play, and activities are designed with accessibility in mind - with adaptations and specific provisions so it is inclusive for all.
We will also have a sensory tent available in a quite space for children to use as they require throughout the session. The sensory tent is used at all our groups, programmes and events for children with additional needs.
Crafting Sustainability: Exploring Eco-Friendly Materials for a Greener Future
We will predominantly use natural and recycled materials.
The preference for using natural and recycled materials in crafts stems from several factors:
Environmental Awareness: Our thoughtfully selected natural and recycled materials, curated to inspire creativity and environmental stewardship! Our commitment to using eco-friendly materials stems from a deep understanding of their impact on our planet. By choosing natural and recycled materials, we reduce the demand for new resources, conserving energy and minimising pollution.
Sustainability: Embrace sustainability as you explore textures, colours, and patterns found in nature, transforming ordinary crafts into extraordinary experiences. Natural and recycled materials are more sustainable options because they can be replenished or reused without causing significant harm to the environment, unlike many synthetic materials which are derived from fossil fuels and may not be biodegradable.
Creativity: Let your imagination run wild as you navigate the challenges of working with unconventional materials, sparking innovation and fostering a sense of resourcefulness. Revel in the beauty of imperfections and irregularities, as they add character and charm to every creation.
Book your place!
Dates will be announced on our social media - keep an eye out for our next available day!
Step into a world of wonder and excitement at our Silent Disco for Children with Additional Needs! Join us for a magical experience where creativity knows no bounds and every child is celebrated for their unique talents and abilities.
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